David Axelrod says Trump ‘unsettled’ by ‘transformation’ of Democrats’ ticket

SUMMARY

David Axelrod remarked on CNN’s The Source that the selection of Governor Tim Walz as Kamala Harris’s running mate has notably shifted the presidential race, putting former President Donald Trump on the defensive. Axelrod observed that Trump appears 'unsettled' by the new Democratic ticket, which he described as presenting 'a fresh and positive alternative' to the current administration. He praised Walz for challenging Trump and Senator J.D. Vance with a mix of "gentle humor" and pointed critiques. Axelrod stated, “Suddenly, Donald Trump feels like the embattled incumbent,” and highlighted the contrast between Trump’s campaign, which he described as having a “grinding quality,” and the “joyful and positive” tone of Harris and Walz. Despite these shifts, Axelrod previously warned that Trump remains in a strong position, emphasizing, “It’s absolutely Trump’s race to lose right now.”